What's New at Wachusett Mountain
Spring Activities at Wachusett Mountain
Wachusett's Aquatic Bugs and Kin
When: Saturday, May 17, 2008, 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm
Where: Meet at the John Hitchcock Visitor Center
Agenda: Come learn about invertebrates and insects in a pond and stream on Wachusett Mountain. Chris Picone from Fitchburg State College will lead this field program. We will catch (and release) critters in a stream with seines, then use dip nets to see what is in an adjacent pond. This activity is ideal for families with kids of all ages. Some waders will be provided, but bring your own if you can. Meet at the John Hitchcock Visitor Center. FREE.
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Hike to Wachusett's Vernal Pools
When: Sunday, May 18, 2008, 1:00 pm - 4:00 pm
Where: Meet at the John Hitchcock Visitor Center
Agenda: Come join the Friends of Wachusett Mountain on a vernal pool hike exploring 3 or more different pools. Scott Smyers from Oxbow Associates, Inc. will lead our trip starting at the base of the Mountain, so anyone can participate without hiking. Participants will learn about the ecology of vernal pools and what makes the pools on Wachusett unique. The exploration will continue up the Administration Road to an additional 2 or 3 more pools for those interested in hiking to the top of the mountain. Families are welcome. Meet at the John Hitchcock Visitor Center. FREE.
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New Research
Natural Resources Practicum: A Fish Species Survey at Wachusett Mountain State Reservation
Jeremiah Driscoll
Natural Resources Technology
Professor Tom Montagno
Spring 2007
Native Brown Bullhead
(Ameiurus nebulosus)
Abstract
The natural resources practicum began 1 year in advance of completion. The idea of doing a fish sampling resulted from brainstorming with Wachusett Mountain State Reservation Ecologist, Doug Williams. Once the topic was chosen, much research was needed to identify bodies of water that were to be sampled. A list was made of the locations to be sampled on a collection permit application.
Once a permit was obtained sampling begun at the selected sites: Bolton Brook, Bolton Pond, Echo Lake, the Greene Pond, West Wachusett Brook and the Summit Pool. Minnow trapping was done at all six locations first, and then an electroshock backpack was then used by Division of Fisheries and Wildlife biologist, Mark Brideau at applicable sites. The method of gillnetting was also done at two larger bodies of water: Echo Lake and Greene Pond.
Much of the findings of minnow trapping were mirrored by the methods of electroshock and gillnetting. The species of fish found throughout the Reservation waters were: Eastern Brook Trout, Brown Bullhead, Golden Pond Shiners, Chain Pickerel, Pumpkinseed and Goldfish. All of the species present are native to Massachusetts with exception to the Goldfish, which were introduced into the Summit Pool.
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Join today!
Join the Friends of Wachusett Mountain today! An annual Family Membership is only $20, and an Individual Membership is $15.
Open a Membership Application in PDF format by clicking FWMembership.pdf or in Microsoft Word: FWMembership.doc
Please make checks payable to Friends of Wachusett Mountain and mail completed membership application and check to:
Friends of Wachusett Mountain
PO Box 301
Princeton, MA 01541-0301
Thank you for your contribution! If you have any questions or comments please e-mail us at scott@friendsofwachusett.org.
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